The Judicious Beauty of the Ohio Supreme Court

This week, I had the honor of giving a keynote address at the Ohio Supreme Court’s conference on my book, Rage and the Republic, and our founding principles. I must confess to some embarrassment at being unaware of the history and beauty of the Ohio Supreme Court. I was instantly overwhelmed by the building and eagerly accepted Chief Justice Sharon Kennedy’s offer of a tour.

This is a court with a deep and inspiring history. It was founded in 1803 and has the distinction of putting the first woman (Florence Allen) on its highest court in 1923. Chief Justice Kennedy holds the distinction of being the first female Chief Justice of Ohio. She is also a former police officer.

It is also the court that produced John McLean, who went on to serve over 30 years on the U.S. Supreme Court (March 12, 1829 – April 4, 1861). A fierce opponent to slavery, McLean was one of two dissenters to the Dred Scott decision.

First built in 1930 and designed by Harry Hake, it is a tour de force of Art Deco. Windows look over the Scioto River.

The first thing that you learn upon entering the court is the intense pride and love for this building from the staff to the jurists. Chief Justice Kennedy and all of the staff have their favorite rooms and elements. Marshal Rod Tyler and Deputy Marshal Mike West not only helped supply security but also offered their own stories about the building and its history.

The building itself goes back to the 1930s. However, shortly after construction, it sustained extensive damage from a natural gas explosion that destroyed much of the interior. The explosion blew off the ornate bronze doors (sculpted by Alvin Meyer) and killed 11 people. Doug Stein, the Civic Education Manager, was kind enough to send me this image of the damage to one of the gorgeous mosaics. Here is the image from the explosion and the image of the current mosaic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The main courtroom is stunning with its hand-carved wood trim, marble support, and painted ceiling.

The building houses five stories of library with a massive reading room.

There are small hearing rooms with lovely artistic elements showing industry, Native American heritage, and our founding. Even the elevators are magnificent period pieces.

I have long admired great courthouses. However, few could rival the Ohio Supreme Court. It is not ordinarily a stop for tourists, but I could not recommend it more highly. You will find a stupendous structure filled with staff who cherish its history and beauty.  Give it a visit on your next trip to Columbus. You can schedule a tour at CourtTours@sc.ohio.gov. You will not regret it.